The Department carries out multifaceted research work in the following scientific fields: history, archaeology and management of cultural assets. For the list of research projects, click on the list of research projects projects.

The Archaeological Shoreline Research Project (A.Sho.Re.)

Τhe Maritime Archaeology Laboratory leads the Archaeological Shoreline Research Project (A.Sho.Re.), a geoarchaeological survey and excavation project in SE Kephallenia  (Ionian Sea). For the requirements of A.Sho.Re the Laboratory has ongoing collaborations with N.C.S.R. «Demokritos» as well as the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (H.C.M.R.). A.Sho.Re. is an invited end-user of the FP 7 ITACA project (Innovation Technologies and Applications for Coastal Archaeological Sites). In addition, this project trains students in coastal field research methods and techniques, and has collaborated with the Institute for Field Research (2014 and 2015 programmes - Read 2014 Report here). For the Repots of 2022 and 2023 read, here και here respectively.

Archaeological Research of Kalamata Castle

The Archaeological Research of Kalamata Castle is a collaborative research project of the Department of History, Archaeology and Cultural Resources Management (DHACRM) of the University of Peloponnese and the Ephorate of Antiquities of Messinia. The aim of the research at Kalamata Castle is to investigate the use of the castle area up to modern times (settlement and cult activities over time, its management as a monument) and, through this, the systematic documentation of the history of the ancient, medieval and modern city (Faron-Kalamata). An important aspect of the research at Kalamata Castle is its educational character, as it employs students of the DHACRM, who are trained in the methods and practices of field research (excavation, archaeological data management).

Archaeological Surface Survey in Upper Messinia (2021-2025)

The Department of History, Archaeology and and Cultural Resources Management (DHACRM) of the University of Peloponnese in collaboration with the Ephorate of Antiquities of Messinia conducts the Archaeological Surface Survey in Upper Messinia (2021-2025), with Eleni Zimi, Associate Professor of Classical Archaeology, as the Scientific Coordinator of the project.

The project consists of the identification and digital mapping of antiquities and monuments (from prehistory to the early 20th century) in an area of 30,000 acres in north-eastern Messinia, in the municipality of Oichalia. The area is promising because of its largely unknown antiquities, its rich natural environment and its important local history. DHACRM faculty members, students and scientific collaborators from Greece and abroad are working with local communities and institutions for the successful implementation of the project.

The methodology applied in the Archaeological Surface Survey in Upper Messinia (2021-2025) includes: a) traditional techniques of Landscape Archaeology, i.e. exploration of the countryside by walking, b) applications of new technology (analysis of satellite images, historical aerial photographs and drone shots and use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for digital mapping and mapping of sites of archaeological interest and monuments).

The programme has three strands of interest: a) research, b) education, c) development.

a) Research

Production of new knowledge about local history and cultural heritage.

Theoretical: on the local history of Upper Messinia through time, its monuments and their management, the evolution of settlements and habitation, land use and road networks.

Applied: use of technology in archaeological fieldwork and in 'big data' management.

b) Education

Training of students of the DHACRM and other university institutions in Greece and abroad in field archaeology, using new technologies.

Raising awareness of local communities on the protection of cultural heritage and environment.

c) Development

Protection and preservation of monuments from natural and man-made hazards, through their identification, recording and digital mapping.

Creation of an infrastructure for the development of soft alternative tourism in the area and new economic outlets for its inhabitants.